Ecology of the Central California Coast

Catalog description

Units: 2 Hours: 54 (27 lecture, 27 laboratory) Field study of the unique features of the central California coast between Morro Bay, Big Sur, Monterey Bay, and Point Reyes National Seashore. Coastal habitats explored, identifying coastal plants, animals, and geologic processes, and emphasizing the interrelationships characteristic of coastal environments. Environments studied include sandy beach, ocean bay, tidepool, mudflat, coastal forest, oak woodland, grassland and coastal scrub. Areas are contrasted with other coastal regions. Human impacts and living styles viewed as they affect the natural environments. This class requires the ability to hike moderate distances on uneven ground. Boat travel may be necessary. This class will involve camping in either developed campsites or in undeveloped wilderness areas. (CSU)